Spokane County extends grace on late sewer late fee until end of August

Spokane County Commissioners have suspended late fees, penalties and interest on unpaid bills for sewer and solid waste building until the end of August.

In a statement, Environmental Services Director Kevin Cooke, who recommended commissioners suspend late fees, said the move could ease the burden many businesses and families are facing while they are out of work.

Martha Lou Wheatley-Billeter, Spokane County’s Public Works Information and outreach manager, said sewer will never be shut off because it is a public health hazard, but under normal circumstances the county does put liens on the land of property owners who don’t pay. She said those types of actions involve a long process, and the suspension of late fees, interest and penalties is designed to help those who are paying later due to unemployment or other issues.

“We’re trying to be a good neighbor and do what we can to help people,” she said. “If you’re in a bind, don’t worry about the late fees, we’ll handle it. This wasn’t caused by you and it’s something we’re all going through.”

During an average month, Spokane County’s Environmental Services Department collects $55,000 in late fees and penalties, and a three month suspension could result in a $165,000 loss in revenue.

Other local governments including the city of Spokane have suspended late payment fees and shutoffs until further notice.

Though people will not be financially penalized for late or nonpayment, Marlene Feist, Public Works director of strategic development, said they still are responsible for paying their monthly utility bill. She said the city is working with residential customers to make payment arrangements or other accommodations and low-income residents can seek assistance through the city’s U-Help program. Recently the city of Spokane worked with SNAP to raise $150,000 for the program, and there is still money available.

Community members can call SNAP at 509-325-6821 to see if they qualify.

Businesses can also seek a deferral of one to thee months on their city water, sewer, stormwater and garbage bills with an agreement to pay over a six- to 12-month period without interest.

Those who do not receive water or sewer services from the city of Spokane or Spokane County need to check with their water district to see what payment plans, assistance and late fee policies are available. There are nine or more water and sewer districts that provide services to Spokane County residents and over the last several months a proclamation by Gov. Jay Inslee has barred water providers from shutting off service due to unpaid utility bills.